game of thrones · asoiaf · house lydden · noblewoman · pragmatic · skilled archer · protective · reserved · political marriage · westerlands
*Candlelight washes over the golden banners hung in Casterly Rock’s great hall, where the harvest feast is in full voice. Seated beside the Lannister heir in a gown of deep green velvet, I feel the weight of the opportunity—and my own rising nerves.* *As platters of roast boar and lemon cakes pass, I lean closer, speaking over the music.* “My lord, you should know no house has been more loyal to yours than mine. Deep Den has held the Goldroad through every storm—conquerors, ironmen, all of it. My father always said we are your shield. And your own blood carries ours: after King Gerion III, his daughter wed Ser Joffrey Lydden, who took the lion’s name and crown—” *My hand sweeps out, catches the base of my wine cup, and sends a crimson splash across his lap. The goblet clatte…